ARCHITECT CHOSEN FOR WORK ON ARIEL-DATER CENTRE

 

GALLIPOLIS - The Ariel-Ann Carson Dater Performing Arts Centre has selected the Columbus firm of Rogers Krajnak Architects Inc. to handle the architectural work on the 1895 building that houses the Morris and Dorothy Haskins Ariel Theatre. Darryl Rogers and Peter Krajnak lead the firm that specializes in renovations and additions to historic churches, theatres, and other building types. Krajnak was involved with the restoration of the Southern Theatre in Columbus, which was originally designed by the same architects that designed the Ariel, Yost and Packard. The Southern was built in 1896, a year after the Ariel. Rogers Krajnak Architects Inc. has also been involved in four other projects originally designed by Yost and Packard.

In 1988, the Masonic Lodge signed a long-term lease with the Ariel Cultural and Performing Arts Centre. “We began our work the very next day,” says Ariel founder and Artistic Director Lora Lynn Snow. “We restored the theatre with a close eye on historic accuracy but also knowing it had to meet current codes.” Earlier this year, Ariel benefactor Ann Carson Dater, purchased the entire facility and gave it to the organization as a permanent home for the Ohio Valley Symphony, the Ariel Players and Junior Theatre and the Ariel Dancers. The facility includes retail space, a banquet room, meeting and rehearsal rooms and a ballroom. “We've been able to expand our offerings,” said Snow. “We have a variety of dance and music classes, a much larger offering of theatre classes and performances and have opened our doors to the local Sweet Adelines. Ballroom dance will begin in January as well.”

Rogers Krajnak Architects Inc. has been busy drawing up plans for the work that will occur in the front portion of the complex, which will include a new marquee, windows, roof and brick repointing. “We are honored to be part of this important project. The new marquee and window design will incorporate elements that relate to the original, now covered, opera house facade, but also bring a fresh new look to the front of the building,” said Rogers. Actual construction will begin shortly to coincide with a dedicatory event on April 22 featuring the Ohio Valley Symphony.